Bangladesh is investigating claims of a $5 billion embezzlement tied to a Russian-backed nuclear power project involving former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her family. The Anti-Corruption Commission announced the probe on Monday.
Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India after being removed from power in August, is under investigation along with her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and niece, Tulip Siddiq, a British MP and government minister.
The allegations surfaced after a petition was filed in the High Court by Bobby Hajjaj, chairman of the Nationalist Democratic Movement party, seeking an inquiry. “We seek justice through our court,” Hajjaj told AFP.
The case revolves around Bangladesh’s first nuclear power plant, the $12.65 billion Rooppur Nuclear Project, which is largely funded by Russia through a 90% loan. According to the commission, $5 billion was allegedly embezzled through offshore accounts in Malaysia.
The investigation also focuses on “overpriced construction” and irregularities in procurement practices. Officials have expressed concerns about kickbacks, mismanagement, money laundering, and abuse of power in handling public funds for the project.
Other corruption allegations include theft from a government program meant to provide homes for the homeless.
Sheikh Hasina, now 77, fled Bangladesh on August 5 via helicopter. Many citizens are demanding she return to face trial for alleged “mass murder.”
Tulip Siddiq has denied involvement in the embezzlement claims, according to a statement from the British Prime Minister’s office. Attempts to contact Hasina and Sajeeb Wazed Joy, who is reportedly based in the US, were unsuccessful.
